Last month we took a look at the various common habits that can have a significant impact to your oral health. Dr. Maryam Adibfar – one of Toronto’s top dentists – continues the discussion by identifying a few other habits that you should be aware of. Let’s take a closer look at how you can maintain your beautiful smile.
Cough Drops
While cough drops have many great benefits, it doesn’t mean they are overly healthy for your teeth. Many are now loaded with sugars. Sucking on a cough drop for an extended period of time can have a negative impact on your teeth. The sugars found in cough drops can turn into acid and begin to eat away at your tooth enamel. This can lead to cavities.
The fix: If you need a cough drop to soothe your throat, be sure to brush your teeth immediately after.
Opening Things With Your Teeth
We typically use our teeth to open things like bottle caps, bags or tear things. Sometimes it seems so much more convenient than finding a bottle opener or pair of scissors. But this makes your dentist cringe. Using your teeth as a tool can lead them to chip or even crack. This can lead to significant oral health damage.
The fix: Remember that your teeth should be used only or eating. Don’t think of them as a tool. If you need to get something open, find a proper tool. Keep bottle openers and scissors on hand.
Tobacco
Smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco can lead to many health issues. These habits can permanently stain your teeth, lead to gum disease and weaken your teeth’s strength. Worse yet, it can lead to cancer in your mouth, gums and throat. Think of your smile. No one likes yellow teeth.
The fix: Quitting smoking or chewing is difficult. We know that. But think of your beautiful smile and teeth. It might give you that added boost to finding quit.
Chewing on Pens or Pencils
Have you ever been in a meeting or studying for that big exam and you find your pen or pencil wedged in between your teeth? It’s a very common habit. Much like chewing on ice or other hard things, this common habit can significantly impact your oral health. Your teeth can chip, crack and weaken over time. While it might seem harmless, it can lead to big oral health issues.
The fix: Need something to chew on? Think about keeping sugarless gum on hand. It might take some time to break this habit, but make the conscious effort to stop it. Chewing on gum can also trigger the production of saliva, which has many oral health benefits.
Next Steps
Do you have questions about how to improve your oral health or want to schedule checkup, teeth cleaning or routine exam? Contact us directly! Our team looks forward to seeing you.
And don’t forget to follow Dr. Maryam Adibfar on Facebook, Google Plus and Twitter for the latest dental tips, tricks and advice!
A BONUS Just for You!
When you refer a friend, family member or colleague to our office, you’ll receive a $25 gift card to a favourite local coffee shop!
Simply contact our Davisville dental team directly to make a referral! Now that you know how to combat stains, you can enjoy your coffee or tea to the fullest!